However, depending on the weather conditions throughout this week, it is possible that not all of the closures will be required.

Emergency service vehicles will be able to get across the bridge during the closures so there will be no need to close the Market Place.

Pedestrians are advised that both footpaths will be unavailable while the bridge is closed with diversions in place. One lane will remain open in both directions during the day and one footpath will also be available.

Terry Collins, corporate director for neighbourhood services, Durham County Council, said: “We would like to thank users of the bridge for their patience during these essential overnight closures.”

Keep up-to-date with all the latest information on the Milburngate Bridge project at www.durham.gov.uk/milburngate where you can see live traffic camera streams, and follow #milburngate on Twitter.